Chengdu Accommodation

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

When deciding where to stay you should consider what your daily routines will be. Most companies either establish their operation in the Southern tech park or the Western tech park. Transportation through the Chengdu’s three ring roads is possible but the sudden rise of private car ownership has clogged them and can make for long commutes. If you do not have a driver it should be noted that between 8 to 9:30am it is difficult to get a taxi.

If you have children, schools might be a top priority for you. There are two international schools located in the south of Chengdu, and another two international schools located in the east and city center respectively.

Chengdu is a safe city and the most common crime is petty theft. The complexes where most expats live have guards 24 hours as do the office buildings offering that extra bit of security.
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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Due to the low number of foreigners in Chengdu the options for expat standard accommodations are relatively few. Most of these expat accommodations can be found in the south and west because of their proximity to the technology parks.

The south has traditionally been where most expats stay in Chengdu and this is why there are more Western restaurants and goods available here than anywhere else in the city. Most complexes are off Renming Nanlu, just south of the second ring road in the Tong zi ling area. The sizes vary from apartments to townhouses depending on where you look and what your budget is.

Further south is becoming increasingly popular with expats. This “far south” area has larger town houses and small homes. However, the lack of public transportation will make life less convenient and is only recommended if you have a car.

The west area of Chengdu offers some of the newest and most luxurious housing in the city. The neighborhoods in this area constitute a diverse living environment, with countless shops, restaurants, markets and tea houses; there are also many parks, rivers and lakes for leisurely strolling and a quiet feeling of living outside the hustle and bustle of a big city. With Chengdu’s largest foreign foods outlet store and easy access to second ring road, this area has become one of the chosen spots for middle and upper management transferees looking for a more suburban area in China.
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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Most expats tend to rent, but it is possible to buy as well.
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Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

The standard rental contract in Chengdu is for one year, but it is possible to arrange for six months or two years. Most landlords will require a deposit of one to three months’ rent. Rent is paid either in three or six month intervals depending on the landlord. Finally service fees for real estate agents are usually equal to one month’s rent; half paid by the tenant half by the landlord.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are usually not included in the price of the rent.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Chengdu is relatively safe and most apartment complexes with expatriates have guards 24 hours a day in gated complexes.
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I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current in China is 220 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50.

The "official" plug type is like Type A, but slightly shorter and without holes in blades. Type "A" and "I" outlets are common and Type "G" might also be found.

Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in China:

Type A - flat blade attachment plug

Type I - Oblique flat blades with ground (inverted V)

Type G - Rectangular blade plug


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Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

If you need further assistance with your accommodations, contact Crown Chengdu.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:

Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.